DOCUMENT RESUME CE 031 420 AUTHOR Legacy, … Best control is healthy, thick turf which keeps weed seeds from contact with soil thereby preventing germination Queation 29 How soon

DOCUMENT RESUME

4.ED 212'877 CE 031 420

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AUTHOR Legacy, Jim; And Others c,

TITLE Planting Turf., Competency Based Teaching Materials inHorticulture.

INSTITUTION Illinois State Board of Education, 'Springfield. Dept.of Adult, Vocational and Technical Education.;Southern Illinois Univ., Carbondule, Dept. ofAgricultural Education and Mechanization.

PUB DATE [80],

NOTE , 42p.; For related documents see CE 031 413-421.AVAILABLE FROM Agricultural Education & Mechanization Dept.,

Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901

.,...

EDRS PRICE mro1 /pc02 Plus Postage.DESCRIPTORS *Agricultural Education; Check Lists; Competency

Based Education; Horticulture; Job Skills; LearningActivities; Ornamental Horticulture; *OrnamentalHortiFulture Occupations; Secondary Education; Tests;*Turf Menagement; Units of Study; Visual Aids

ABSTRACTThis competency-based curriculum unit on planting

turf is one of four developed for classroom use in teaching the turfand lawn services area of'horticulture. The eight sections are-eachdivided into teaching content (in a question-and-answer formatkiNk,/student skills that outline steps and factors for consideration.Topics covered include preparing soil bed area, planting turfgrasses,lawn establishment by seed, stolonizing and sprigging, plugging,sodding, rolling, newly- established turf, and caring for a newlye stablished lawn. A list of references precedes a section containingvisual aids, student skill checklist, and student activities, such ashandouts, discussion activities, field trips, crossword puzzles,hands-on'experiences, worksheets, tests, and quizzes. Answer keys areprovided. (YLB)

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* Reproductions supplied by EDRS an the best that can be made *

* from the original document. *

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UAL DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF EDUCATIONEOUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION

CENTER (ERIC IThe document hea been reproduced asreceived from the person or organuabononginating it

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Listed below are competency based curriculum unit- developed for classroomuse in teaching horticulture. All units are indexed and include teachingcontent, references, student activities, a skill check list, and visual aids.

LANDSCAPE/NURSERY

Tree Identification.-

Developing a Landscape Plan.

Implemenfing the Landscape Plan

Maintaining the Landscape

Nursery Propagation

GREENHOUSE PRODUCTION 1A MANAGEMENT

.

CoRtrolling the GreenhouseEnvironment

Greenhouse Soils

Foliage Plants

Propagation

Sales

Cut Flower.Production _

Bedding Plants,TURf AND LAWN SERVICES

. ,:

Identification. of Turf Grasses

Soils ana Fertilizers

Planting Turf Grasses

Insects and Diseases

VEGETABLE PRODUCTSON

Identification of Cool SeasonVegetables

/

Identification of Warm SeasonVegetables

Vegetable 'Production.

Insects, biseases, and Weeds

1

FRUIT PRODUCTION

(In progress)

_

-4--f

u.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Thi4 matetia itu4 pupated by:, Jim 'Legacy, Fned Reneau, Thoma4 Stitt,Tetky Savho, Amy St.oi.gakt, Kathy Cumming4, Cartote Vouch, Shaun Flanagan,and 42 Ittinoia teachertis o4 honticatute, in coopeution with theIttinoi4 State Board 06 Education, DepaAttent 06 Adult, Vocational andTechnica Education, aha the PepaAtment 06 Apicuttunat Education andMechanization, Southern ittinoia Univetzity.

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PLANTING TURFGRASSES

Content/

PREPARING SOIL BED AREA

Test soil, drainage requirements,- nutrient requirements, sitegrade, site preparation, common turf insects and diseases,weed control, soil amendMents

PLANTING TURFGRASSES7

Spring/fall seeding, growth habits of turfgrass varietiqs,characteristics of cool season/warm season turfgrasses,advantages/disadvantages of cool season/warm season turf-grasses, seed quality, plug and sprig quality, select

/-N, desired variety fqr. site

LAWN ESTABLISHMENT BY SEED9

Seed selectton, seeding rates, seeders, seed planting

STOLONIZING AND SPRIGGING10

Sprigging, topdressing

PLUGGING11

,Turf 'selection, planting time, uses

SODDING12

Site preparation, soil amendments, water requirements, sodcharacteristics, order sod, installation, follow-up care

.

,ROLL NEWLY ESTABLISHED IF.. 14

Purpose of rolling, weight used

CARE FOR A NEWLY ESTABLISHED LAWN16

Water requirements, types of irrigation, weed control,ins control, mowing heights of cool season/warm season .

ectilvarlet s fertilizer requirements, rates of fertilizerapplications

REFERENCES21

STUDENT ACTIVITIES22

Question 1

Quest Lon 2

Question 3

StudentSkitt 1

Steps.

1. Contact soil testing agentfor forms

2. Collect soil sample3. Place 'about a pint of soil

in a plastic bag, label it,and send it to the soiltesting labs

Planting TurfgrassesPREPARING SOIL. BED AREA

Teaching content: 35 questions; 4 student skills

Whe tests soil?

Extensipn service- Private soil testing laboratory

What will a soil test review?

- Present nutrient levels- pH

- Soil texture .

- RicommendatiOns

Should I have my soil tested?

Alternatives

1. No soil test nor applicationof lime or fertilizer to areaspecified

2. Guess-apply a little ofeverything

3. Test soil

Factors. for Consideration

- Could yield less than 4i*

desired resultsor'+'

: Further unbalance lawn area

- Eliminate problems, helpsinsure success

TEST SOIL

5

Factors for Consideration

1. Use clean non-metal bucket2. Soil to be tested shoulq,

represent soil from 1520spots in any one samplingarea

3. Take samples to a 'depth of6-7"

4. Record where each sample wastaken

r;

. Que4ton 4

2

What type of debris needs to be removed?

Rotting `wood

Stones

@at:ion t" Why should rocks and debris be removed?

-'Buried debris can lead to stress from severe heat and droughtstress

- Decaying leaves undesirable depressions- Provides favorable location for diseases and insects

4 Atie4tion 6 How deep should rocks and debris be removed?'

- All gmaterial 1/2" or larger should be removed from the top4" of soil.

- All material '" and larger should be removed from the top 12"of soil.

24e4.tin 7 What do I use for grading points?

House foundation- SideWalks- Driveway's

- Trees

Que4tion 8 What is the ideal grade?,

- 1-2% away from fiouse

%cation 9 What materia ls should be used in subgrading?

- Good fill soil that is free frcm debris, insects and weeds.

Queaton 10 How much fill should be used? .

- Generally-enough to bring the grade up to within 6-8" Of the°desired level.

Queation 11, How much top.soil should be added to the subfill?

V - At least 6-8" or more is needed to level the lawn to the

): desired grade.

.=

1

N.

11.

4 Quehtion 12

Que4tiOn 13

Quest on 14

Quest on 15

Immtion 16

1

Question 17

Quest on 18

Queisti.on 19

ezation 20

Quehtion 21

3

What is surface drainage?

- Surface drainage is providing proper slope and contouring to

provide rapid and efficient surface removal of water.

How much slope should beused?

-.Not less than 1% grade sloping away-from the nouse but more can

be used to develog,an aesthetically pleasing effect.

Whe should subsurface drainage be used?

n poorly drained soilsWhere surface drainage is not practical

For lbw areas and depressions

What soil type-is desired for lawns?

- 8-12" of sandy loam !oil is preferred.

What can be added to top soil to make it more desirable for plant

materials?

- Organic matter- Gypsum

What elements or nutrients should be added to the soil?

- Limestone based on a soil test to raise pH.

- Sulfur to lower pH

- Nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium at the rate of 1-2 lbs. each per

1000 sq. ft. of area (12-12-12)

How shoWd these materials be incorporated?

- The added,materials should be rototilled or worked into the top

6-8" of top soil.

-What are the characteristics of a well-prepare soil?

- It should be moist, granular, firm, free of clods, stones and

other debris. -

When should the soil be prepared?

- Within 24 hours.of planting if possible

What equipment should be used?

- A high speed rototiller followed by rolling and a light raking /-will generally provide a good seedbed.

1(

7

StudentSkill 2

4

Queation 22

Que4tion 23

Que449n)24

StudentSkit 3

4

DETERMINE PERCENT ROUGH GRADE FOR SITE

Steps Factors for Consideration

1. Set up transit and sighting rod 1

2. Take reading3. Do mathematical calculations to

determine percentage of slope

. Be sure transit is leveledcorrectly

What types of erosion are present in lawns?

- Water- Wind

How can water erosion be controlled?

- 'Reduce the speed-of si'rface drainage

- Mulch seed bed after planting

How can wind erosion be controlled?

- Keep surface moist by wafering- geduce.wind velocity by using portable screens

PREPARE SITE

Step

1. Remove rocks and debris

2. Rough grade lawn

3. Provide for surface orsubsurface drainage

4. Modify soil

5. Cultivate top soil

6. Control erosion

S

4


1. Anything larger than 1/2" in top 4"of soil and larger than 2" in top12" should be removed

2. Shape subsurface to desired contour6-8" lower than desired finishedgrade

3. Slope lawn at least 1% away fromhouse where possible. Providetile if not possible,

4. Add limestone to raise pH to 6.5-7.0.Add 2 lbs. sach of nitrogen, phosphor-ous and potash per 1000 sq. ft.

5. Incorporate nutrients and amendmentsinto top soil and work top 4-6" to afine granular texture. Roll top soillightly to level and rake lightly.

6. Mulch if necessary to control watererosion. Screen and water to preventwind erosion.

-yr 5

)(44Leotion 25 What are the major insects which attack turfgrasees?

O."

- Root-feedingGrubsBillbugsMole crickets

- Shoot feedingSod iMowormCutwormsChinch bugs

Aphids

(refer to Turf Management by Turgeon, pages 259-269)

Queation 26 What are some common weeds found in lawns?

- Dandelion - Spurge - Block media- Buckhorn - Crabgrass - Ground ivy

- Yellow rocket - Goose grass - Oxalis

- Chick weed - Wild garlic - Coarse fescue

- Clover - Plantain - Knot weed- Purslone - Heal-all - Fox tail

- Thistle - Shepard's purse

a )q4eation 21-___How can lawn weeds be controlled?

1- Establish and maintain a healthy turf, which includes a yearly

fertilization program- Water appropriately- Use good seed variety- Maintain proper soil pH

Use herbicides

Queation 28 WhatAmethods of weed control can be used?

- Pre-emergence herbicide- Post-emergent selective contact herbicide

- Best control is healthy, thick turf which keeps weed seeds fromcontact with soil thereby preventing germination

Queation 29 How soon can seeding or sodding be done?

- In-mast cases 30 daysNew products on the market such as siduron allows immediateseeding or sodding

StudentSkill 4

6

CONTROL PERSISTANT WEEDS

Steps

1. Read label carefully oncontainer

2. Make application3. Do not seed or sod until

chemicals have dissipated -


1. Follow directions exactly2. Wear protective clothing3. Destroy empty container

properly4. Wash hands

Quest on 30 How do I know if .1 need soil amendments?

lOy the amount of clay present in the soil (the more clay thegreater the need for amendments. Incorporate them thoroughly).

Que4tion 31 What are some of the soil amendments I can choose from?

- Peat moss- Composted sawdust- Sand- Humus- Top soil

Question 32 How do I know what to add to soil?

- Interpret soil test

QReAion 33 How do I add necessary marials?

- Use broadcast spreader and incorporate them C-8" into soil

with tiller.

Quation 34 How long can wait to seed or sod after final grading?

- Seed or sod immediately so seed bed " not ruined.

What are key points to remember when final grading?

- Get area as level as possible- Maintain 1-2% slope away from house- Remove foreign matter

Que4tion 35

411

Q4eation 1

'lineation 2

1,Veation 3

7

PLANTING ,TURFGRASSES

Teaching content: 12 questions; 1 student skill

What are the advantages-of spring seeding?.

.- Adequate r infall can be expected- Plenty of sun and warm temperatures aid in germination

What are the a dvantages of fall seeding?

- Soil is warm, encouraging rapid germination

- Adequate rainfall can be expected- The warm soil, Al cool air temperatures encourage goop root

formation as less plant energy is exerted to'top growth

What precautions must be taken for summer planting?

- Water often and thoroughly to keep ground cool and moist

- Don't mow newly established stand of turf too low - -ofly 1/3 of

blade at most per mowing with a height of 2" or more during

summer months

4te4,tion 4 What environmental factors affect the growth habit of turfgrass

varieties?

.:".4.e.stLon 5

- Full sun- Partial shade- full shade- Amount of moisture- Amount of air movement

What are the characteristics of cool season turfgrasses?

- Day temperatures of 60-75°F for favorable growth

- Moist, neutral to Alightly acid soils

- 4-6# N per 1000 ft /year- Mowing height of 1 1/2-2"- Sunny to slightly shaded sites

-41.43tion 6 What are the disadvantages of cool season turfgrasses?

- Goes domant in nigher summer temperatures- Requires supplemental irrigation during drouth periods

What am characteristics of warm season turfgrasses?

- Day temperatures of 80-95°F for favorable growth

- Adapthd to wide range of soil conditions

- Quite tolerant of heat and drouth

- Not tolerant of shade

- Mowing height of 1/2-1" preferred (Bermudagrass/Zoysiagrass),1 1/2-2 1/2" for St. Augustinegrass

- Rapid establishment through use of plugs or sprigs

- Withstands foot traffic very well

70t4tion 7

Queation 8

8

11,

What are the disadvantages of warm-season turfgrasses?

- Thatch build-up can be a problem- Turns brown (yellow) early in fall due to colder temperatures

and later green-up in spring than for cool season varieties- Tends to be an active spreader into flower beds

Question 9 How can seed quality affect the selection of a variety?

- Seed purity- Seed germination- Seed labeling- Seed certification

Queation 10 How can sprig quality affectiselectiOn?

- Sprig freshness- Sprig purity

Que4tion 11 How can plug quality affect the selection?' ,

- Plug freshness- Plug purity

StudentSkitt. 1

SELECT VARIETY

Steps

1. De*rmite type of turfgrassto plant

2. Select variety3. Deter:Mine meod of planting


1. Cool season for northern areas;warm season for southern areas

2. Likes and desires, environ-menta' conditions

3. Seed, sprig, plug4. Cost

Queation 12 What should I ask about the different varieties oc grass seed whenmaking the selection?

Strengths - Weafiiility

- Weaknesses - Mowing height

- Shade tolerance - Where best adapted for- Water needs - Inert materials- Fertilizer needs - % germination

12

')

QueatiOn 3 What determines the seeding --rateAL

LfiNal ESTALLISHMENT BY SEED


*Queationei Should I buy seed?

Alternatives Factors for Consideration

1. SeCt - Wider range of varieties areavatlable as seed

- Starting from seed is less.expensive

2. Sod - Sod provides Anstant lawn

Que4t.ion 2 What type of seed should I.buy?

,Alternatives. Factors for Consideration

1. Straight - Gives uniform lawn in color.andtexture

- One variety could be easily wipedout by disease

2. Blend - Blend combines strengths

3. Mixture - Mixtures have best adaptabilityoverall

- Cheapest way to establish turf

- Turfgrass species% germination and purity of seed

- Germinating conditions .\- Establishment rate desired\

@eati.on 4 4lhat rate of .seed per variety?

- Kentucky bluegrassBentgrass

- Creeping Red Fescue

- Tall Fescue (K-;31)

- Perennial Ryegrass- Annual Ryegrass- Sunny Mix

Bluegrass 50%Red Fescue 25%Bentgrass 12%Redtop 12%

- Shady MixRed Fescue 50%Rough Bluegrass50%

i3

Area per # iler 1000 ft2

200-300 ft2. 3.5-5#/1000 ft2250-300 ft2 3.5-4#/1000 ft4

200-256 ft2 4-5#/10U0 ft48 #/100, ft2

la-f4.8t/lO

ft2 7-10#/1000 ft2

250 ft4 4#/1000 ft2200-300 ft2 3.5-5#/1000 ft2

x,250 -300 ft2 3.5-44/1000 ft2

ti

10

Q4eatien 5 How much seed should I buy?

- Determine square footage of area to be seeded- ,Calculate need based on recommended rate per 1000 sq. ft.

"4 --

Quution 6 What types of seeders are available?

Queisti.on

- Gravity- Centrlifugal

- Cultipacker- Hydroseeder /

How deep should (he seed be planted?

- Usually 2-4" below the surface will be mot favorable for rapidgermination

Question 8 How can seed be covered?

a

. StudentSkitt 1

- Controlled rolling or firming will improve germination because ofthe increased seed-soil contact for imbibition of water by seed

SEEMPLAWN AREA


1. Carefully rake and level 1. Seed in 2 different directionsseed bed

2. Sow seed'3. Lightly rake seed in and roll4. Add mulch 4. Use weed free mulch5. Water thoroughly 5. Water to a depth of 6"

STOLONIZING AND SPRIGGING


Queation 1 ,What is stolonizirig?

- Stolonizing.is vev.tative propagation by broadcasting stolons4 over prepared'soil. They are then topdressed and press-rolled.

It is common procedure in bentgrass and bermuda-grass.

14

What is meant by topdressing turf?

- A prepared soil mix is added to the surface of a turf and workedin by raking and/or irrigating for the purpose of firming theturf by working soil in among stolons and thatch-forming materials.Alio used. for enhancing thatch decomposition and covering stolonsor sprigs during vegetative planting.

What is sprigging?.

- Sprigging is similar to stolonizing except thein small furrows or holes; primarily done with

it

Why is sprigging-necessary for certain va

)

ieties

- Because they don't produce viable seed,- Faster to cover lawn area

Q4Laion 5 What turf varieties are sprigged?

- Warm season grasses'only

alteetion I

stolons are plantedZoysia /Bermudagrass.

of grass?

SPRIG NEW LAWN AREA

Steps

T. Prepare lawn area 1.2. Plant individual sprigs ak.,

spaced intervals 4-12" in rrowwith.. furrows spaced 4-12" apart

3. Fill furrows and roll lightly,topdress at regular intervals 3.

4. Water thorough

actors for Consideration

Keep sprigs cool, moist,and out of sun until plantingtime

Topdressing material shouldbe similar to the underlyingsoil

PLUGGING

-Teaching content: 5questions; 1 student skill

What, is plugging?

- Plugging is the vegettive propagation of turfgrasses by meansof plugs or small pie es ofod which are planted at regularintervals.

@cation 2

12

How is pigging done?,

- 2-4" diameter,plugs of sod .

- Place plugs 12-18" apart on center

p.e4t,iDn 3 What kinds of turf can De plugged?

4- Warm season grasses only--most common)y used for propagatfhgZoysiagrassTopdressing seldom used with plugging except on bentgrass or8ermuslagrass greens

Qtte4tion 4 When is. the besttime to plug a lawn?

'-'Early spring--in order to have a maximum period of warm itmpera-tur s for rapid turfpass establishment

@ea:ion 5 When is plugging used?

- To repair damaged areas- For initial establishment of certain varieties oft turf

StudentSkat 1

Que.otion 1

4414LUG NEW LAWN

Steps

1. Prepare lawn area

2. Plant plugs on 6-12"centers

3. Area should be rolled tofirm soil around plugs

4Water thoroughly


1. The shorter the distance betweenplugs, the qyicker turf is estab-lished

2. Topdressing may be necessarylater to level lawn

3. Helpsrto provide favorablemoisture relations

. , SODDING

Teaching content: 11 questions; 2 student skills

How should site be prepared for sodding?46

- Prepare similar to seeding- Ensure adequate soil moisture level prior to planting

16

13 MIN

Queation2 Do I need fb improve the.soil if I buy sod?

Question 3

cluutio n. 4

Queation 5

Quet.i.on 6

n 7

SiudentNate 1

Alternatives

1. Use soil as is2. Add amendments


- The better your soil is beforeestablishment of lawn, theeasier it will be to take careof in the.future

Why is watering important prior to planting?

Iftures adequate soil moisture- Causes maximum rooting rate- Re ces transplant shock

How much water is required prior to planting?

- On sandy loam soil generally wet soil 1-2" deepLfghter soils require more water.

What characteristics are desired in high quality sod?

- Uniformity- High shoot density

Adequate,strength for harvestingand handling

- Freedom from weeds, insects,diseases and nematodes

How often must sod be watered?

- Daily; water to a depth of 6"

- Acceptable color

- Sufficient maturity in termsof carbohydrate reserves topermit effective rooting

- Minimum thatch layer

- Variety adapted to area

How does one deterMine how much sod to order?

- Measure lcngth and width of area to be sodded and divide by 9;this answer is the numbei* of quare yards to order

HARVEST SOD

Steps

1. Check for proper quality 1.

2. Obtain equipment 2.3. Cut sod

4. Roll sod 4.5. Store in cool' place and . 5.

keep moist '1 6,


Sod will be of no better qualitythan when OrvestedSod cutter

Make sure to get a uniform rootmass of sufficient thickness tohold togetherGenerally 1 sq. yd./rollPrevents, drying out-and dyingDo not keev Cut snd fhr

Queatutn

Question 9

V4

How soon must sod be installed after de ivery?

- As soon as possible. Be sure and keep sod moist.

How should sod be laid?

- Unroll and nestle one against the other. Place strips in

staggered:position.-F4rm into place and fill voids with weed-free soil- Roll to firm and mask strips tightly againt each other

@Wiwi 10 How should water be applied after sod is laid?

Student-

Skitt 2

Que4t,i4n 11

Olettion 1

- Watetito a depth of 4-6"- Roll'wlth medium weight roller

Steps..

Prepare site2. Obtain materials3. Lay sod

4. Fill in voids5. Water sod6. Roll sod

,TRANSPLANT SOD


1. Same as for seeding2. Sod: water sprinkler, roller, knife3. Tight joints in ai overlapping

pattern4. Prevents holes5. Soak about 6" deep6. Knit pieces together and to

underlying soil

What follow-up care or attention is needed?

- Water thoroughly as needed for 2-4 weeks or until sod has firmly

kflitted to soil bed- After establishment, handle as any newly seeded lawn

ROLL NEWLY ESTABLISHED TURF

Teaching content: 8 questions; 1' student skill

Are there other advantages to rolling a lawn?

- Eliminates air pockets- In the case of sodding, it helps seams knit better- Reduces erosion problems on seed beds

. 18

Quetstion 2

Olmat..i.on.3

imaion 4

Queition 5

eQuest on 6

Que4tion 7

IS

When should a new lawn be rolled?

- Immediate] after 'seeding or. soddingt...,1

Why are new plan ings rolled?

- To prevent drying out of roots--To put more moisture in contact with roots and seeds

How much weight should be placed in a roller?

- Cloddy soils and sandy soils require more than wet heavy soils'- Drier soils require more then wet soils

How heavy a roller should be used?

- 250-350 lb.

How deep should soil be compacted after rolling?

- New seeding should be compacted about 1/4-1/2" below seed to surface- Sod should be compacted to knitstrips'together and to soil bed

What types of soils require more rolling?

- As cloddishness increases, rolling is more effective- Do not roll heavy soils when they are very we

trption 8 . Now is aeration reduced by rolling?

- By pressing, soil particles closer together and by breaking upclods into smaller structure

S6dentSkitt 1

ROLL SODDED AREA

Steps'

1. Obtain equipment

2. Water about 6" deep3. Fill roller with water

4. Roll sod or seedbed


1. Sprinkler, water and roller2. Soak sod and underlying soil3. Added weight will help Dress

sod and soil4. Reduces sir content in soil

and slows drying

16

CARE FOR A NEWLY ESTABLISHED LAWN

Teething content: /23 questions; 4 student skills

Q4ealion 1 How often should a new lawn be watered?

- Daily for first 30 days, then twice a week for 30 days, thenonce a week.

Qgeotion 2 What are Some factors that can affect watering requireMents?

- Type of SoilType of grass--

.- Weather

- Wind

QueatiOn 3 How deep must a.lawn be watered?

Queati.on 4

- 6-8" (equivalent to a 1-2" rainfall)

What time of day should lawn be watered?

- Water whenever the lawn needs. it

Queation 5 What determines the need for irrigation?

Temperature- Humidity- Air movement.- Susceptibility of variety to drought

Que..stion What types of irrigation can be used on turf?

Qsa 4.tion 7

- Sprinkler type irrigation- Surface flooding

SubsurfaCe irrigation

What are the essential features of sprinkler irrigation?

- Adequate water supply- Suitable means of providing pressure- Water transmission lines of adequate capacity

Efficient equipment for distribution

StudentULU 1

Question 8

17

IRRIGATE SITE

Steps

1. Determine if additional oiter 1.is needed

2. Select method

3- Obtainvaterials4.'rrrigate lawn5. Put away equipment


Wet to depth of 4-6" or 1/2"below seed or root mass

2. Sprinkler, subsurface orflooding

3. Equipment, hose, water supply4. As outlined in step 1

How can lawn weeds be controlled LI a newly established lawn? //. - Water adequately`- Mow to correct height- Use good seed

- Maintain proper pH- Fertilize during growing season- Maintain thick stands of grass

(b.te6ti.cin 9 'How do I keep) healthy lawn?

- Mow at right height

- Fertilize adequately,

- Good watering practice

Qp.e4tion 10 How soon can the new lawn be treated with a herbicide?

Question 11

StudSkitt

- After the fourth mowing

What should be used?

- Selective c- Following s

herbicide

ontact broadleaf herbicidepring use a weed grass post-emergence preventer

4

CONTROL WEEDS AND INSECTS

Steps

1. Determine problem2. Select trathod

3. Treat needed area

Factor: for Consideration

1. Only use if problem exists2. Use chemicals only.if necessary3. Spot treat before widespread

problem develops,

21

18

Queation 12 How soon should a new lawn be mowed?41P.

- As soon as it is high enough (2")

- Allow soil to dry before mowing to minimize damage

Qp.eation 13 Now often should nevi lawn be mowed?

- Mow when grass grows to 1/2-1/3 taller than its recommended mowing

height.

Queation 14 What type of mower should be used?

Alternatives Factors for Consideration

Queation 15

Question 16

StudentAUL 3

1. Reel2. Rotary3. Flail

- Adjustable mowing height

- Safety- Type of grass to be mowed

- Height of lawn area to be mowed

What are the correct mowing heights for cool season and warm season

grasses?

- Bermuda or Zoysia should be cut between 3/4 and 1"

- Bluegrass and Fescue should be cut 11/2 inches high in spring

and 2 1/3-3" during summer

How much grass should be removed at each mowing?

- Not more than 1/3 of the total height at each mowing

When more than this is removed, the grass may shocked and

clipping disposal may be a problem

Steps

1. Measure height

2. Get mower

3. Start mower

4. Mow grass

5. Put away mower

INITIAL MOWING


1. Mow warm season grasses when theyget 1 1/2" high; cool seasongrasses when they get to 2"

2. Use correct type, preferably push

mower for first mowing3. Be sure to wear safity glasses

when operating4. Watch wheel marks and foot prints

so they do not tear up turf

5. Be sure to clean mower and check

blade for sharpness for next mowing

22

ApgAtion 11

Que4tion'18

taistion 19

Qp.ution 20

Qge4t.i.on 21

Qpzition 22

StudentMU 4

19

What are the most important nutrients for a lawn?

- Nitrogen -- growth and color

- Phusphorousroot growth- Potassium -- wearability and disease resistance

What is a complete fertilizer?

One that'contains nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (potash)

What is the most important nutrient for my new lawn?

Phosphorous--root deVelopment

How often shOuld a new lawn be fertilized?

- Four times a year at-evenly paced intervals between April andOctober (usually 6-8 weeks apart)

- A yearly rate of 2-4 lb. of N/1000 sq. ft. should be appliedduring the course of the growing season.

How much fertilizer should be applied to fescue and bluegrass?

- 1 1/2 lb. of nitrogen in spring and fall and 2 1/2-3 lb. nitrocznin summer

- 2-3 lb. of phosphorous and potash during growing season

How much fertilizer should be applied to Bentgrass?

- 2-3 lb. of potassium and potash/1000 sq. ft. annually- Nitrogen should be applied at rate of 2-6 lb./1000 sq. ft. annually.

FERTILIZE POST-GERMINATION


1. Determine needs2. Fertilize in spring

3. Fertilize in summer4. Fertilizefin fall5. Obtain material6. Weigh out fertilizer7. Fill spreader and calibrate

8. Spread 1/2 fertilizer ineach direction

9. Clean equipment10. Put away equipment

A

1. Soil test2. 1 1/2 lb. N, 1 lb.

K and 0/1000 sq. ft3. 2 1/2-3 lb. N/10004. Same as spring

5. Fertilizer and equi6. To get proper amoun7. Do this on driveway

face not in turf8. Prevents over-ferti

or skill9. Wash with plenty of

prevent rusting

P205, 1 lb.

sq. ft.

pmentt for areaor some sur-

1 ization

water to

(taut-ion 23

20

What should be discussed with customers to eliminate future mis-

understandings?

- Work and material guarantee- Potential problems that may arise

Best time of day to contact you

24

21

REFERENCES

Beard, James B. Turf rass: Science and Culture. Englewood Cliffs,N.J.: Prent_ ce-Hall, Inc., 1973.

Crockett, James U. and the Editors of Time-Life Books. Lawns andGround Covers (2nd Edition). New York: Time-Life Books, 975.

Ingels, Jack E. LANDSCAPING: Principles_and Practices. Albany, N.Y.:Delmar Publishers, 1978. (--

Pennsylvania State University. Turfgrass Identification. UniversityPark, PA: Pennsylvania State University. (slide set/script)

Pennsylvania 'State University. Types of Turf. University' Park, PA:Pennsylvania State University. (iiTaTiet/script)

Reiley, H. E., and C. Shry, Jr. Introductory Horticulture. Albany, N.Y.:Delmar Publishers, 1979.

Science and Education Administration. Better Lawns--Establishment,Maintenance, Renovation, Lawn Problems, Grasses (Revised).Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1979.`t Home and Garden Bulletin Number 51.

Turgeon, A. J. furfgrass Management...Reston, VA: Reston PublishingCompany, Inc., 1980.

Turgeon, A.J., and Floyd Giles. Turfgratses of Illinois. Urbana, IL:CoOperative Extension Sprvice, 1975. Circular Number 1105.

25

b

)

.

k a

22

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

26

ePLANTING TURFGRASSES

Definitions

Alkaline soil - soil,Whosd.reaction is above pH of 7.0

Cool-season turfgrass - Turfgrass species adapted to favorable growthclueing the cool portions (60 -75 °F) of the, growing season;

may become,dormant or injured during the hot weather.

Herbicide - A pesticide used for controlling weeds.

Mixture - Combination of 2 or more species.

Overseed - To seed onto an existing turf to provide activa grass growthduring the dormancy of the original turf - usualTy a cool-seasongrass over a warm season grass.

Pegging sod - Use 'of small stakes to hold sod in place until transplantrooting occurs; normally used on slopes and waterways.

pil- A numerical measure of the acidity of a soil; a\pH of 7 indicatesneutrality while above 7 is basic and below 7 is acidic.

!lug - To propagate turfgraues.megetatively by means of plugs or smallpieces of. sod.

Ading - Propagation of turfgrass vegetatively through the use of sod.

StEingjair - Vegetative planting by placing stolons, rhizomes, or tillersin furrows or small holes.

Warm-season turfgrass - Turfgrass species adapted to favorable growth. during warm porlions.(80-950F) of the growing season.

ZONE A-COOL SEASON GRASSESZONE B-WARM OR COOL SEASON GRASSESZONE C-WARM SEASON GRASSES

Suggested grass vari-tiesfor the establishment of permanent lawns

ZONE A ZONE B

Kentucky Bluegrass * W: mer Areas *

Creeping Bentgrass Bermudagrass

Red Fescue Zoysiagrass

* Cooler Areas *

Kentucky Bluegrass

Creeping Bentgrass

Fine Fescue

ZONE C

Bermu rass/

Zoysiagrass

St. Augustinegrass

ESTABLI SHer.GA LAWN

1, -Good drainage is a must. Slope,soil away from homesite in alldirections, if possible. ,Spreadsoil evenly over area - eliminatehigh spots where mower blademight scalp turf. Fill in lowspots where water collects or amower cannot evenly mow.

2, Loosen soil with tiller. Pea-size lumps should remain tocatch the tiny grass seeds. Rocksand debris should be removedbefore incorporating lime orgypsum into the seedbed. Lightlygrade soil once more beforewetting it to firm soil intoplace.

3, Spread grass seeds with seeder,preferably the rotary type. Forbetter coverage, it is best toapply seeds in.to. directions.Seeding rate varies with thegrass varieties - consult chartfor proper rate. Do not over-seed as seedlings need room forroofkand leaf development.

Lightly rake seeds into seedbedbeing careful not to bury seeds.Roll area once with empty rollerto assure seed contact with soil.Seeds must have light to germin-ate

5, A starter fertilizer is appto the soil bed prior to t e

seeding. Grass seed con insenough nurishment for ge ina-tion, but added nutrien arenecessary for further seedgrowth.

a

6, Keep newly planted area moistfor 2 week.,, or until the turfis well established. Avoid lightwaterings as moisture mustpenetrate the soil 4-6" deep.Sprinklers should be set to coverentire area without having tobe moved as this di,:turbs plantgrowth.

17, Grass should be mowed when 2.2-.

Do not mow shorter than 2"the first ,year as this aids inshoot growth and root development.Clippings may be removed toprevent disease problems. Theyare an organic source of Nbut may also cause a thatchbuild-up.

8, Weeds will appear in the newturf. All soils contain weedseeds but many will die off afterweekly mowing begins. 'Weed andFeed' fertilizer may be used thesecond year as well as the use Ofearly spring pre-emergent controls

(Dacthal).

\sit fir iiteg

30

lb

MANAGEMENT PRACTICES THAT HELP PREVENT

',AWN DISEASES

These practices are generalguides to be used according toone's judgment. Their importancedepends on the kind and serious--nese of the disease threat. Not 411of them are practicable under allconditions.

Select grass species bestadapted to the soil, climatic, andlight conditions under which theywill be grown.

Plant mixtures of recom-mended grasses. Species vary intheir susceptibility to differentdisease organisms, and in a mix-ture one or more of the grassesusually will survive, a severe dis-ease attack.

Do not clip upright-vowinggrasses such as Kentucky blue-grass and red fescue too closely-1% to 2 inches is the best height.Creeping grasses such as bent -grass and zoysia may be clippedat Va inch or less.

Mow the oafs before it getstoo tall; not more than one-half of

the leaf surface should be re-moved at one time.

Mow the lawn frequentlyenough in the fall to prevent theaccumulation of a thick mat ofgrass before snow comes.

Apply enough fertilizer tokeep grass vigorously growing,but avoid overstimulating thegrass with nitrogen. Apply limeif soil tests indicate a need foi it.

Clippings need not be re-moved except on heavily fertilizedlawns or during periods when thegrass is growing rapidly. Clip-pings provide nutrients for fungiand help to maintain humiditylong after the sun has dried off -surrounding uncovered !traits.

Water .early enough in theday to allow grass leaves time todry out before night. Avoid fre-quent, light waterings, especiallyduring warm weather.

Do not water grass until itegins to wilt, then soak the soilto a depth of 8 inches or more.Provide good surface drainage.

.3cfence and Education Administration. Lawn Diseases - Now tocontroi r h e a (Raised). Washington, D.C.: ELS. v r n g-

enEMI and Garden Bulletin 61, 1979.

31

4

STUDENT SKILL-CHECKLIST

Planting Turfgants

Preparation steps before seeding:

1. Soil tested for present nutrient levels 5

2. Rocks and debris removed 5

3. Rough grade the lawn .

5

4. Necessary subsurface drainage installed : 10

5. Modify the soil5

6. Cultivate, the topsoil10,

7. Steps, taken to control erosion 10

Max. YourScore Score

Selection of proper seed:

8. Vartety Lhosen according to season 10

Seed the lawn area:

9. Rake and level seed bed10

-10. Rake seed in and roll10

11. Add mulch10

12. Water thoroughly10

Total Score 100

MEM immulasII

11111111

Across:

1. Any plant growing where it is not wanted

3. Young plant which has been germinating several days

6. Movement of air through the soil

7. Soil with pH above 7.0 .

8. Above-soil drainage11. Natural rock used to reduce soil acidity

13. Surface soil14. A substance whiph destroys or prevents the growth

of fungi15. Used to lower pH17. Dead and decaying plant and animal material

19. Carpet-like method of propagation

20. To withstand or prevent21. To spread over an entire area

22. The amount of moisture in the atmosphere

23. Loss of water through a leaf or stem

24. Tc, grout or- begin to grow

Down:

2. Method of propagation other than seed

4. Type of grass used on golf greens

5. Common lawn weed7. The clinging together of soil particles to form a.

crumb-)ike particle8. Method of propagating lawns

9. Underground stem which produces roots

10. Washing or blowing away of soil caused by water or

strong winds12. Any material used to cover the soil for weed control

and moisture retention16. Plant food element

18. Seed the outer covering of the seed

19. Tile Biat24. Soil with approximately equal amounts of sand,

and clay

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Across:

1. Important for rooting

2. Gives plants their deep green color

3. Used to propagate grasses that don't produce viable seed

4. Used to counter the acidity

5. Grass for shady areas

6. Used to kill weeds

Down:

1. Method of establishing a lawn

2. Used to counter the alkalinity

3. Fast germinating grass

4. Most popular grass in northern areas

5. Volcanic soil amendment

0.

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PLANTING TURF GRASSES

Worksheet

1. Figure the total square feet in each of the following examples:

a.

.c.

d.

210'

0110'

200'

C

0

90'

150'

39

.1

2. Figure how many square yards of sod would be needed for the following,residence:

120'

70'

1/7/18'

3. 'Using the residence in problem 2, figure how much seed would beneeded to seed the lawn at the rate of 5# of seed per 1000 sq. ft.

r.

40

PLANTING TURF GRASSES

Quiz

Matching

1. A major lawn insect

2, A vaety of cool season grass

3. Control for erosion

4. A common lawn weed

5. Used in subsurface drainage

6. Seeding rate

7. Lawn slope is established

8. Plaotinc depth

9. Raises soil pH

1Q. Plugging

A. limestone

B. mulching

C. buckhorn

0. Kentucky bluegrass

E. rough grading

F. Japanese beetles

G. tile .

H. .2-.4"

I. 1-2 'bs/1000 sq.ft.

J. vegetative prop.gation

Fill in the blank

1. The three most important nutrients to a good lawn are: a) nitro4en

b) phosphorus c) potassium

2. A measure of the acidity or alkalin;ty of the soil is known as a pHHtest.

When grading a yard the percent of slope should be 1-2% away fromthe house.

4. List three soil amendments:

a) peat moss b) perlite c) sand

5. The best times of the year to seed a lawn are autumn &

6. At what height should grass grow to before being mowed for thefirst time 2ft

7. Whet are the two types of mowers? a) reel b) rotary

Al

J

0)

PLANTING TURFGRASS

Wiz

1. What three things will a soil test determine?

present nutrient levels

pli

soil texture

2. List three types of debris to be removed from the soil during'

seedbed preparation.

rotting wood stones cement

3. Now much slope away from the house should be used?

not less than 1%

4. When is subsurface drainage used?

in poorly drained soil

where surface drainage is impractical

for low areas and depressions

5. What characteristics are maintained in a well-prepared soil?

moist, granular, f4"111, free of clods ,nd scones

5. When preparing the site for planting turfgrass, certain steps must

be carried out. Renumber these given steps into the correct order.

A. Modify soil

B. Rough grade the lawn

C. Remove '-'1501111d-debris

D. Control erosion

E. Cultivate topsoil

F. Provide for surface or subsurface drainage

7 List some common weed!, found in lawns.

ndelion, Clover, Plantar Thistle, pxalis,

Knotweed, fpLtILL

d9

Documents

DOCUMENT RESUME CE 031 420 AUTHOR Legacy, … Best control is healthy, thick turf which keeps weed seeds from contact with soil thereby preventing germination Queation 29 How soon